US Aviation Authority is Still Using Windows 95 and Floppy Disks

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is moving to overhaul the nation’s aging air traffic control (ATC) system, which still relies on outdated technology, including Windows 95 computers and floppy disks.

According to NPR, many air traffic control (ATC) towers and facilities across the United States (US) continue to use paper strips and outdated hardware to manage critical flight data.

Acting FAA Administrator Chris Rocheleau addressed the issue before the House Appropriations Committee last week, stating, “The whole idea is to replace the system. No more floppy disks or paper strips.” Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy echoed the urgency, calling the ATC upgrade “the most important infrastructure project that we’ve had in this country for decades,” and emphasized its bipartisan support.

The aviation industry has formed a coalition, Modern Skies, to advocate for ATC modernization. The group has even run public ads drawing attention to the continued use of floppy disks and other outdated technologies in the nation’s airspace management.

Upgrading the ATC system, however, is a complex challenge. Many systems cannot be shut down for upgrades due to their critical role in maintaining air safety. This means that replacing old components must be done without interrupting operations. Additionally, any new system must be highly secure to prevent cyberattacks, as a single breach could have catastrophic consequences for national security and public safety.

The FAA continues to spend significant resources maintaining its legacy systems, which must operate around the clock. Despite ongoing repairs and overhauls, the agency acknowledges that the current approach is unsustainable. The White House has not yet provided a cost estimate for the modernization project, but the FAA has issued a Request For Information to gather proposals from technology companies. The agency has also scheduled several ‘Industry Days’ to invite pitches and solutions from the private sector.

While Secretary Duffy has set a goal to complete the modernization within four years, industry experts warn that this timeline may be overly optimistic. Regardless of the exact schedule, there is broad consensus that the time has come to bring the U.S. air traffic control system into the 21st century after years of neglect.